Off The Record - The DJ Podcast by Crossfader

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  Ep 159 Fabric. The Harsh Reality of Being a DJ in 2026 20.07.2026 32min

  Being a great DJ isn't enough anymore.The DJ industry has changed.In 2026, simply being able to mix two tracks together isn't what gets you booked, builds a fanbase, or creates a long-term career. The DJs making the biggest impact today understand that success goes far beyond technical ability.This is the full recording of a live talk from our Crossfader DJ to Producer Summit at Fabric London, where we explore what it really takes to build a career as a DJ in today's industry.In this session, we discuss:What separates successful DJs from everyone elseWhy DJing alone isn't enough in 2026How to build a brand that stands outThe skills every modern DJ should be developingHow to create opportunities instead of waiting for themWhether you're a beginner DJ, an aspiring touring artist, or already playing gigs, this conversation will change the way you think about building a career in electronic music.If you're serious about growing as a DJ, this is one talk you don't want to miss.Let us know in the comments: What's the biggest challenge you're facing in your DJ journey right now?
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  Ep 158 IMS . "The Truth About The DJ Industry Nobody Talks About" 30.04.2026 34min

  Are DJs being replaced? And is your DJ career actually at risk?In this Off The Record Podcast, filmed at IMS Ibiza, we break down how the DJ industry is evolving, and the 5 common DJ mistakes that are holding most DJs back.With more competition, new tech, and changing standards, standing out as a DJ has never been harder. This episode gives real insight into what separates DJs who stay stuck vs those who actually grow.If you’re serious about improving your DJ skills and building a long-term career in DJing, this is a must watch.
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  Ep 157. James Hype - "The Secrets To Becoming a Headline DJ" 20.04.2026 1t 7min

  Meet James Hype at Magazine London - August 14th https://8ea26lmng75.typeform.com/to/QkdO83SSWhat does it really take to go from a bedroom DJ to headlining stages around the world?We sit down with James Hype to break down the full journey- from early struggles and self-doubt to viral moments, chart-topping tracks, and global touring. James shares the mindset, discipline, and decisions that shaped his career, and why he believes anyone can make it with the right approach.If you’ve ever wondered what separates average DJs from the elite… this is it.
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  EP 156. We reviewed DJs Instagram Pages - Olivia Mancuso 02.04.2026 42min

  In this episode of 'Off The Record' Podcast, we dive deep into the art of business networking with Olivia Mancuso, offering practical networking tips for anyone looking to expand their professional circle. We discuss the importance of relationship building and how to effectively navigate gatekeeping in various industries. This discussion is crucial for personal growth and career development. Let us know in the comments, what’s been your biggest challenge with networking? Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro02:35 - Jealously in the industry 06:51 - Is short form content the issue? 08:41 - Sippy on Olivias podcast11:50 - Different content serves different audiences13:40 - Going viral17:10 - Entitlement of music fans19:51 - Tips to request music21:31 - Reviewing Student Social Media pages26:49 - Pinned posts and their purpose28:00 - Who are you making content for? 30:36 - Strategy to networking 35:54 - Miami music week 37:43 - What we have coming up39:40 - Surround yourself with the right people 42:13 - Outro
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  EP 155. DJs flexing on instagram doesn't work any more - Olivia Mancuso 26.02.2026 48min

  In this episode of 'Off The Record' Podcast, we get real with Olivia Mancuso about what it actually takes to grow as a DJ today on social media.Why are some DJs building momentum online while others stay stuck? Is it the industry… or the mindset?We break down how to build an audience on social media, create content that actually connects, turn engagement into opportunity, and adapt to the modern DJ landscape without burning out.If you’re serious about growing your DJ brand and taking control of your career, this episode is for you.Let us know in the comments, what’s been your biggest challenge with building your audience?Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 01:17 What you been up to?07:01 DJs need to stop complaining08:28 Start over11:09 What path does a DJ take? 16:33 How to build an audience?29:30 Comparing yourself 32:13 diversification in the scene34:19 Networking43:51 How to level up your content48:00 Outro
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  Ep 154. 5 Tips to improve your live DJ performance 04.12.2025 47min

  In this week’s Crossfader Podcast, we cover everything you need to level up your next performance.Main topic: 5 essential live set tipsKnow the venue – event type, crowd, age rangePlan your music – folders, hot cues, energy flowUnderstand the nuance – visuals, MCs, pyro, peak timeCapture great content – filming, angles, examplesPerform with presence – crowd engagement, movement, mic useA short, practical episode packed with value for any DJ playing live.www.wearecrossfader.co.ukUse code : OFFTHERECORD20For 20% off any DJ Course
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  Ep-153. "Not Every DJ Needs to Play Clubs Anymore" - Elijah 27.11.2025 1t 5min

  In this episode, Elijah-DJ, writer and creator of the Yellow Squares, sits down to talk all things music, creativity, and the future of DJing. We cover:Buy - Close the app, make da ting https://www.amazon.co.uk/Close-App-Make-Ting-Transformative/dp/1913231798Follow Elijahhttps://www.instagram.com/eli1ah/What does it mean to be a DJ in 2026?How the Yellow Squares project went from Instagram to global impactThe tension between creativity, commerce, and algorithmsHis bold collab with AlphaTheta on the yellow OMNIS-DUO controllerWhy “friends buy tickets” and the economics of music cultureBreaking out of the bubble and redefining success on your own termsA must-listen for anyone navigating the modern music industry.00:00 Intro 05:15 What is a DJ? 10:30 Creative Freedom 15:45 The Algorithm 21:00 Friends Buy Tickets 26:30 DIY DJ Culture 31:45 The Yellow Squares 37:00 Why DJs Should Write 42:15 Agent vs Artist 47:30 AlphaTheta Collab
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  Ep 152 - DJing in 2026...Where will you fit in? 18.11.2025 49min

  🚨BLACK FRIDAY SALE - 50% OFF ALL DJ COURSES 🚨https://wearecrossfader.co.uk/black-friday-2025/Fresh from speaking on a Native Instruments panel at ADE, Lawrence breaks down the four pillars every modern DJ needs: Passion, Technology, Community, and Attention.If you’ve ever felt stuck with no gigs, slow growth, inconsistent content, or unsure of your DJ identity - this episode helps you diagnose which pillar you’re missing and how to strengthen it.You’ll learn why attention is now a major currency, how tech unlocks creativity, how community creates opportunities, and why passion fuels everything.A clear, practical roadmap for any DJ looking to grow in 2025 and build a career that lasts.
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  Ep. 151 - There are there too many DJs... How can you stand out? 30.10.2025 43min

  The DJ To Producer Course: https://wearecrossfader.co.uk/dj-to-producer/We’re back with a big one.There are more DJs than ever, so how do you actually stand out?After a week on the ground at Amsterdam Dance Event, we share what we saw and heard, from chats with major artists to honest conversations with students. We get into why flyers don’t grow an audience, what you should post instead, and why moving from DJ to producer is becoming non-negotiable if you want to cut through.www.wearecrossfader.co.ukUse code OFFTHERECORD20 for 20% off any DJ course
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  Ep. 150 HANA: From touring with Grimes to playing EDC 08.10.2025 44min

  Join Crossfader for free 👉 get access to lessons, resources, and your own personalised learning journey:For 20% Off DJ Courses, Use Code: 20OFFTHERECORDDJ and producer HANA joins Lawrence James to talk about learning Ableton, touring with Grimes and Lana Del Rey, live-streaming her Hannadriel album on Twitch, and evolving into a global Anjunadeep artist. She shares insights on creativity, balance, mental health, and her new EP “Extended Prey.”If you’re a DJ, producer, or creative chasing balance and longevity in the music industry, this one’s packed with honesty, practical advice, and inspiration.
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  Ep. 149 DJ's Dont Need To Worry About These 6 Things 22.09.2025 49min

  Join Crossfader for free 👉 get access to lessons, resources, and your own personalised learning journey: ⁠www.wearecrossfader.co.ukFor 20% Off DJ Courses, Use Code: 20OFFTHERECORDEvery DJ stresses about gear, music, and “perfection”… but most of it doesn’t matter. In this episode of Off The Record DJ Podcast we break down 7 things DJs can finally stop worrying about. We also share one of the best Reddit stories ever: a wedding that turned into a rave, complete with a bride vs groom sound clash for their first dance. 🔥Along the way we talk about ADE, our new studio setup (shoutout to RØDE for the podcast gear), and why making mistakes is all part of the DJ journey.)
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  Ep. 148 What the internet thinks about the CDJ-3000X 11.09.2025 44min

  Join Crossfader for free 👉 get access to lessons, resources, and your own personalised learning journey: ⁠⁠www.wearecrossfader.co.uk⁠For 20% Off DJ Courses, Use Code: 20OFFTHERECORDOur CDJ-3000X review reached hundreds of thousands of DJs across social in just 24 hours, showing how big this debate is. Is it worth the upgrade?
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  Ep 147 How I Became Toolroom's Biggest Selling DJ - Essel 28.08.2025 46min

  Join Crossfader for free 👉 get access to lessons, resources, and your own personalised learning journey: ⁠⁠www.wearecrossfader.co.uk⁠For 20% Off DJ Courses, Use Code: 20OFFTHERECORDEssel joins us to share her wild journey from dancing and cruise ships to Ibiza residencies, Beatport number ones, and touring the world. In this unfiltered conversation, she opens up about:Starting out in Ibiza with zero planWhy networking in the DJ industry feels fakeBuying followers to get noticedThe highs and lows of Beatport chart successHer struggles with social media and pressureUsing strategy (and a meme page!) to break tracksIf you’re an aspiring DJ or producer, this episode is full of raw truths, laughs, and lessons from someone who’s lived i
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  Ep 146 The Mind behind Songstats & DONT BLINK - Oskar Eichler 21.08.2025 56min

  Join Crossfader for free 👉 get access to lessons, resources, and your own personalised learning journey: ⁠⁠⁠www.wearecrossfader.co.uk⁠⁠For 20% Off DJ Courses, Use Code: 20OFFTHERECORDFrom bedroom DJ to building platforms that power the global dance scene - Oskar (DONT BLINK / 1001Tracklists / Songstats) has transformed the way DJs and artists grow their careers.Oskar is also half of the duo DONT BLINK, known for tech-house hits like VIBTATION and high-energy global sets.Songstats is offering the Crossfader community an exclusive 10% lifetime discount! Use code CROSSFADER10 or the link below:https://songstats.com/app?ref=CROSSFADER10
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  Ep. 145 How To Get Festival Gigs (7-Steps) 07.08.2025 54min

  Join Crossfader for free 👉 get access to lessons, resources, and your own personalised learning journey: ⁠⁠⁠www.wearecrossfader.co.uk⁠⁠For 20% Off DJ Courses, Use Code: 20OFFTHERECORDIn this episode, we break down the real steps DJs need to take to land festival gigs — and how to make the most of them once you're booked. We start by explaining why we’re launching a DJ competition, then walk through 7 key steps every DJ must follow to level up and land on festival lineups like Tomorrowland, Creamfields, or local stages.💡
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  Ep 144 . How I Broke Into The Ibiza Club Scene 31.07.2025 43min

  Join Crossfader for free 👉 get access to lessons, resources, and your own personalised learning journey: ⁠⁠⁠www.wearecrossfader.co.uk⁠⁠For 20% Off DJ Courses, Use Code: 20OFFTHERECORD🎧 In this episode, we sit down with DJ & producer Angel Lee to talk about her journey from the Leeds nightlife scene to playing at iconic venues like Amnesia Ibiza and beyond. We dive into how she built a sustainable career in the music industry, the lessons she learned from reading crowds, starting her own booking agency, and creating Angie’s Disco during lockdown.From networking and industry connections to music production, label signings, and staying authentic in a competitive scene, this episode is packed with insights for aspiring DJs and music lovers. Whether you’re looking to break into the club scene, grow as a producer, or simply get inspired by a DJ making waves in Ibiza, this conversation is for you.
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  Ep 143. The Man Who Built a Drum & Bass Empire - Chris Goss (Hospital Records) 24.07.2025 1t 4min

  Join Crossfader for free 👉 get access to lessons, resources, and your own personalised learning journey: ⁠⁠⁠www.wearecrossfader.co.uk⁠⁠For 20% Off DJ Courses, Use Code: 20OFFTHERECORDJoin us for an electrifying deep dive into 30 years of drum & bass history with Hospital Records co-founder Chris Goss. From humble beginnings in Leeds and vinyl shops, to global domination through Hospitality events and TikTok-fueled resurgenceWhat the modern label actually does, and how A&R works in 2025The impact of TikTok, short-form culture, and why tempo mattersBehind-the-scenes of Hospitality events—booking, venues, and logisticsThe label's equality mission: women’s mentorship, business schemes, and inclusionHow Hospital discovers and supports rising talent—lens, Gabrielle Bongo, HoaxNostalgia for vinyl and dubplate era creativity vs today's algorithm-driven worldTheir long game: aiming for timelessness and musical legacySubscribe for more exclusive interviews from the electronic music underground
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  Ep 142. How to Build a DJ Brand That Actually Grows 17.07.2025 46min

  Join Crossfader for free 👉 get access to lessons, resources, and your own personalised learning journey: ⁠⁠⁠www.wearecrossfader.co.uk⁠⁠For 20% Off DJ Courses, Use Code: 20OFFTHERECORDIn this episode of Off The Record, Crossfader’s Lawrence James shares game-changing advice for up-and-coming DJs and producers. Recorded during a live session with Toolroom Academy, Lawrence dives deep into branding, social media strategy, content creation, storytelling, community building, and how to grow as a DJ in today’s digital world. Plus, there’s a huge announcement: Crossfader has teamed up with Rise Festival to offer one DJ the chance to play a main stage set in the French Alps this December. If you’re serious about making it in the music industry,
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  Ep 141 : Marketing Expert Breaks Down the Business Side of DJing 10.07.2025 53min

  Join Crossfader for free 👉 get access to lessons, resources, and your own personalised learning journey: ⁠⁠⁠www.wearecrossfader.co.uk⁠⁠For 20% Off DJ Courses, Use Code: 20OFFTHERECORDIn this episode of the Crossfader Podcast, we sit down with Olivia Mancuso - founder of Elevated Frequencies and business coach for DJs and music creatives.We dive deep into how DJs can build sustainable careers beyond the decks, from mastering sales skills and branding to overcoming perfectionism, rejection, and the fear of putting yourself out there.Olivia shares her inspiring journey from TV reporting to launching her own agency and podcast, her experience supporting artists worldwide, and why niching down is the fastest path to standing out.
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  Ep 140 “Stop Telling DJs What Gear to Use” - DJ Angelo 03.07.2025 1t

  Join Crossfader for free 👉 get access to lessons, resources, and your own personalised learning journey: ⁠⁠⁠www.wearecrossfader.co.uk⁠⁠For 20% Off DJ Courses, Use Code: 20OFFTHERECORDIn this very special episode, we sit down with one of the most respected DJs and educators in the world: DJ Angelo. From humble beginnings in the UK to becoming a global ambassador for DJ culture and technology, Angelo has carved out an inspiring career that blends performance, innovation, and education.